USDA to Host Maryland Meeting March 3 on Quarantine Centers

The United States Department of Agriculture-Animal Plant Health Inspection Service will hold six meetings across the country to hear the public’s thoughts and concerns on import quarantine centers and the services they provide to all animals, including horses. This is an opportunity for the horse industry to comment on possible changes that can be made to better facilitate the importation of horses and semen.

During the meetings, APHIS will be asking users to respond to the following questions:

What factors do you consider when preparing to import horses requiring quarantine?

What factors do you consider when choosing locations for horse quarantines?

How can e-commerce enhance the importation process?

What are your experiences with quarantine facilities in other countries?

How do you see your need for quarantine services changing over the next 5 to 10 years?

What other options, ideas or topics should USDA consider relevant to current horse import quarantine processes?

The Maryland meeting will be held March 3, 2014 at the APHIS headquarters in Riverdale (4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737). For more information, please call 301-851-3454.